THE RSPCA is appealing for information after an emaciated dog was left tied to a gate in a remote country lane on New Year's Day.

The one-year-old male Rhodesian Ridgeback type-dog, named "Rusty" by RSPCA staff, was discovered by a member of the public tied to a field gate at the cross roads between Chapple and East Barton, near Spreyton, at about 1.20pm.

Rusty was collected by a dog warden who took him to a vet and then alerted the RSPCA.

A subsequent veterinary examination revealed that Rusty was emaciated weighing just 24.8kg when he was found.

The RSPCA says a healthy weight for a dog of his type and size would have been around 39kg.

Rusty was wearing a red fabric collar when he was found but he was not microchipped and he had no name tag or other form of identification.

RSPCA inspector Marija Zwager, who is investigating the case, said: "This poor dog was left in quite a remote spot on a very cold day and it was incredibly lucky that he was found, especially in his emaciated state.

"We have no idea where he came from but it is possible that the person responsible may have driven him some distance from where they lived before dumping him in this heartless way.

"Rusty is quite a distinctive looking dog, so I would urge anyone who recognises him, or has any information about how he came to be found at the side of the road to contact the RSPCA."

Rusty is now being cared for at the RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter in Exeter, where he is receiving five meals a day and is gradually gaining weight.

Anyone with information about Rusty is urged to contact the RSPCA cruelty and information line on 0300 1234 999. Calls are treated in confidence.